Chinese Racism?

Former Chinese Culture Minister Wang Meng (王蒙) once recounted his conversation with an Australian Sinologist.

In his article published in the book 中国人与外国人 (Chinese and Foreigners, 1997), Wang recalled how an Australian scholar was offended by Chinese reference to westerners as 大鼻子 (or "big noses").

In defence, Wang argued that no malice was intended. But the scholar asked: "How would you feel if we refer to the Chinese as 小鼻子 (or "small noses")?" Wang was stumped.

The Australian scholar next turned to the lyrics of a popular Chinese song 龙的传人 (Descendants of the Dragon), where reference was made to the physical features of Chinese - 黑眼睛黑头发黄皮肤 (black eyes, black hair and yellow skin).

Taking affront at the description, the scholar asked if anyone can imagine white people singing songs with lyrics like 白皮肤黄头发蓝眼睛 (white skin, blond hair and blue eyes). "We'd be accused of being Nazis!"

Again, in defence, Wang suggested that given China's backwardness and humiliation at the hands of imperialists, the song was intended to boost the morale and national spirit of the Chinese people. But of course, the scholar was unimpressed, let alone convinced.